Applying for general release or release with controls

Identification and assessment of risks, costs and benefits

Risks and costs

All foreseeable and reasonable effects of the proposal must be identified
systematically to ensure that nothing is left unconsidered. Those that are
considered likely to have significant effect must then be assessed. The
applicant must explain how the risk identification was conducted, and explain
the basis on which some risks were eliminated as insignificant.
Risk is assessed by combining estimates of
likelihood and consequence. Both the magnitude and probability of the adverse
effect need to be described for a risk to be properly assessed. In some cases,
the likelihood or probability may depend on a complex pathway between the source
of the risk and the adverse effect. Risks and costs should be quantified where
possible, in either monetary or non-monetary terms. However, quantitative
analysis is unlikely to be helpful if there is little data to apply to the
problem, if the effect is likely to be highly variable, or where there is
uncertainty about the likelihood of the effect occurring. On the other hand, if
the potential risk or cost is likely to be large and likely, data should be
sought to quantify that risk.

The central issue for every application to introduce a biological control
agent will be the risk, and consequences of attack on native and valued
introduced fauna and flora. Other effects directly associated with the
introduction of a population of the biological control agent might be
competition with, or displacement of, resident species, or the effect on
predators or alternate hosts. Indirect effects of introducing the biological
control agent might include changes in the populations of other species through
food webs or tri-trophic effects. Other indirect effects may result from the
suppression of the host, for example land instability following weed control.
Applicants should identify risks, cost and benefits de novo for each proposed agent.